"The main reason we are undergoing the in-port TSTA process is for us to correct CART II (Command Assessment of Readiness and Training) discrepancies by holding certain training and drills, and to prepare us for TSTA I/II/III and FEP," said Lt. Cmdr. Zavean Ware, the training officer aboard TR.

During TSTA I/II/III and TSTA FEP, ATG will oversee numerous events including navigation drills, general quarters and man overboard drills, as well as underway replenishments and flight operations.

"Every carrier undergoes TSTA before deployment," said Ware. "TSTA phases are the processes that ramp us up and help us prepare for the final evaluation and ultimately our deployment next year."

USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), currently deployed, is the most recent carrier to undergo TSTA. The ship scored more than 97 percent through more than 300 events.

"We're going to try to outdo the previous carriers on the East Coast," said Ware. "The Rough Rider status is to be the best, and this is just part of the process to get us to the top. The key to accomplishing this is to stay focused and stay positive."